Page 76 of Ruthless God

I look around, expecting to see him somewhere in the room.

Relax. I’m not there.

Yet.

How in the heck do you know what’s happening if you aren’t here?

I have my ways.

What do you mean by yet?

Since my brother is determined to provoke me, I figured I’d return the favor.

How did he provoke you?

By bringing you to Isola Ombrafiore.

I reread the words just to make sure I’m seeing it right. Oh. Shit. He really does know I’m here.

Why did bringing me here provoke you?

My little brother has always wanted what was mine. He took my life. My membership in the Brotherhood. And now he has you.

He doesn’t have me.

Really?

A second later, my phone buzzes again and a photo comes through. My stomach drops. It’s grainy, low quality, and clearly from some kind of security camera. But it’s clear enough to see him. Claudius. Pressing me against the window. Kissing me.

My breath catches, fingers tightening around my phone as I stare at the image. It’s us. Captured. Frozen. Watched. A slow, sick chill spreads through me. I swallow hard, forcing myself to look away, to focus, to breathe. Then another buzz.

See what I mean?

The words are casual. Amused, even. But I can feel the venom beneath them. I realize I’m not just being watched. I’m being hunted.

Why did you try to kill my sperm donor?

Ah, I see my brother’s done more than just kiss you. He’s tried to poison you against me.

Why won’t you answer me?

I’m assuming he told you about our father?

Yes.

Then you know why I want YOUR father dead.

And the other Elite Members?

If you knew what they’d done, you’d be thanking me. The world is better off.

Is Dimitri in danger?

Worried about your friend’s husband? I knew you had a tender heart. It’s one reason I was happy to find you.

How did you know about me?

Your father isn’t as slick as he thinks.

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